Most people are a mix of two body types, with one being dominant and the other secondary.

For example, someone can be primarily an Ectomorph (>55%), with a rather pronounced secondary Endomorph component (~35%-45%). This person would be anEcto-Endo.

If someone’s non-dominant components were very weak (>10%), they would be plainly called Ecto or Meso or Endo, for there is no significant secondary component. Those are the body types that actually resemble the original idea of the body types the most closely.

If someone had a dominant Ectomorph component, but their Endomorph and Mesomorph components, or all components were about equal (25%each), this person would be “Mixed“ or “Balanced”. I am assuming that a very small amount of the population, if not no one is entirely “Balanced”.

If you happen to be “Mixed” (e.g. 50% Endo, 25% Ecto, 25% Meso – celebrity example: Jennifer Lopez), then follow the advice of the main body type (in this case, Endo).

To figure out your body type (also called Somatotype) you can take this test and/or look at the celebrity examples and descriptions below.

Strengths: most able to build great muscle mass naturally, can be the most appealing male physique, naturally athletic lookWeaknesses: may develop too much muscle mass in unwanted places (e.g legs)

Meso-EctoTraits: athletic like a Mesomorph, but with the leanness of an Ectomorph (primarily around the legs or arms)

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Strengths: most able to make significant “lean gains” (build muscle without gaining too much fat), can have the most appealing “beach body” physiqueWeaknesses: may have disproportionately small legs (esp. calves) or forearms

Meso-EndoTraits: athletic like a Mesomorph, but with the fleshiness of an Endomorph at certain body areas or parts, like legs, arms, stomach, or butt

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Strengths: good ability to gain muscleWeaknesses: tendency to look “bulky” if they do not deliberately keep their body fat % down